Queen's Crape Myrtle
lagerstroemia speciosa
Also known as: ["Banaba","Crepe Myrtle"]
Overview
A large deciduous tree native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, known for its large, attractive leaves and vibrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Lythraceae |
| Genus: | Lagerstroemia |
| Botanical Name: | Lagerstroemia speciosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds in poorly drained areas; mulch to retain moisture and improve soil structure.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); can tolerate brief periods below 50°F (10°C) but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize before new growth appears; avoid overfertilizing to prevent root burn; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood); air layering for larger branches.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (70–80°F or 21–27°C); indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can use rooting hormone for better success.
Hormone
Recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; may take an additional 2–3 months to establish as a new plant.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagation dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning; heading back to encourage branching; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant; encourage bushier growth; remove dead or diseased wood; promote flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune at the correct time; make clean cuts; remove debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if pot-bound; use fresh soil mix; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage deep roots; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during growing season; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in cold stress; leaf drop or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; prolonged exposure can lead to dieback or death.
Solution: Move container plants indoors; provide frost protection for outdoor plants; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil pH; follow fertilizer instructions; water after fertilizing; avoid contact with stems or leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring; apply liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLagerstroemia speciosa is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxins that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLagerstroemia speciosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of poisoning in canines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLagerstroemia speciosa, commonly known as Pride of India or Queen's Flower, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, indicating a lack of significant toxicity.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lagerstroemia speciosa toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common uses of Lagerstroemia speciosa?
A: It is often used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive foliage and flowers, and its leaves are used in traditional medicine.
Q: How often should I water Lagerstroemia speciosa?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings, especially during the growing season.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lythraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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